Ethan Masanga was inspired to start volunteering because he wanted to make a real difference in his community and use his time to serve others. He saw it as an opportunity to grow personally, develop new skills, and live out his values through action. His church community played a key role in shaping his passion for service.

Ethan has contributed to a wide range of volunteer activities. He plays bass guitar as part of the worship team at his church, regularly supporting services and events. He helped clean and tidy several areas after a youth camp in Raglan, showing initiative and leadership.

Locally, he volunteers by cleaning his dad’s work vehicles, teaches primary-aged children how to read and write, and spends time engaging in sports and physical activity with others in his community to promote wellbeing and connection. Ethan’s service spans across spiritual, educational, and practical needs – demonstrating his willingness to help wherever he's needed.

Ethan’s service work strengthens the social, spiritual, and practical wellbeing of those around him. His musical support at church creates an uplifting and connected atmosphere during worship. His help after youth camps ensures shared spaces are respected and maintained.

Through literacy tutoring, he empowers younger students with lifelong skills. Even his efforts in cleaning and sports help ease burdens, bring people together, and foster a culture of care and contribution. Ethan's volunteering helps build a more connected, supported, and positive community.

One volunteering experience that stands out to Ethan was helping with the cleanup after a youth camp in Raglan. The work was physically tiring, but it taught him the value of humble service behind the scenes. Despite the hard labour, Ethan felt proud knowing his efforts made a lasting difference for others who used the facilities afterward. That experience reminded him that volunteering doesn’t always have to be public to be powerful – even quiet acts of service can have a meaningful impact.

Ethan is driven by the satisfaction of seeing his service make a real difference in people’s lives. Even during challenging times, he reflects on how far he’s come and how much his volunteering has helped others grow. His faith and family values give him a strong foundation, and knowing he’s part of something bigger than himself gives him strength to keep going. He also sees volunteering as a way to develop personal skills, grow in character, and stay connected to his community.

Ethan encourages others to just start volunteering, even with something small.

“Volunteering isn’t about being perfect or doing something massive. It’s about showing up, caring, and being consistent,” he says. He believes that every contribution counts, and that the growth and purpose that come with volunteering are worth every bit of effort.

“You’ll be surprised how much you gain when you give.”

On behalf of SVA and Rolleston College we would like to congratulate Ethan for volunteering over 500 hours to earn his gold SVA badge – this is a huge accomplishment you should be extremely proud of Ethan!